“There aren’t many tournaments where younger guys get to compete against people their own age,” said Ivanov. “A true junior level [17-20 year-old level] tournament is rare so this will be a good gauge of where they stand and it’s an opportunity to compete against other wrestlers at the same level.”

The competition was preceded by a five-day training camp held in Colorado Springs.

“The camp is very flexible,” added Ivanov. “It gives the guys a chance to get used to the environment, and to warm up for the competition. No one is pushing very hard; they’re just maintaining strength and getting ready for the weekend.”